Short range numerical models bring additional chances for moisture to the eastern half of the state from July 2 through early July 4, likely the best chance for moisture for northern Nebraska through next weekend. If substantial rains in excess of 2 inches fail to materialize, there is a strong possibility that moderate drought conditions will be introduced across portions of the eastern Sandhills and northeast Nebraska next week.

Above normal temperatures since June 1 have reduced accumulated GDD deficits from late April and May. Preliminary analysis suggests that GDD deficits (corn base) have been eliminated across southern Nebraska and reduced across northern Nebraska. See current GDD table.

Severe weather, especially hail, is common during the Nebraska growing season. The impact to crops, structures, and equipment can be devastating, but planning and responding properly can save you time, money, and stress.

A very active weather pattern is currently impacting the central United States, including Nebraska, with repeated rainstorms. As we end the month, models hint at active weather for the western half of the state while the eastern half looks to remain dry.

It will certainly take several days of drying before most soils across the state are fit for planting, but recent models do indicate a window of opportunity for producers to make headway with their planting. The short-term forecast offers a return to normal temperatures by the end of this week with the possibility of precipitation coming back into the picture May 10.

Freezing temperatures were reported at numerous locations across western Nebraska the morning of Wednesday, April 26. Additional frost/freeze advisories were issued by the National Weather Service (Figure 1) for Thursday morning, encompassing most of west central to eastern Nebraska and north to the South Dakota border. The lowest temperature reported Wednesday morning at an NWS location was 27°F at Alliance and Sidney.